Description
“Species” counterpoint
is the traditional method for learning how to write contrapuntal music.
The species counterpoint method dates back several hundred years, but it’s still taught in Universities and music schools across the world today, because of its simplified, step-by-step approach.
The problem is that most species counterpoint textbooks are outdated, dry and confusing. (If you have ever tried to read Johannes Fux’s treatise you will know what I mean!) Many texts insist on using obscure or extinct clefs, which means reading the examples is both challenging and confusing for the modern music student. And in any case, the best way to learn about counterpoint is by
hearing
what you see.
If you need to study species counterpoint as part of your music course, this video course will be a
life saver
for you!
If you are learning for your own pleasure, you’ll find this course is
accessible and practical
, and will open the door for you to more in-depth study of counterpoint.
This course will give you a thorough preparation in
two-part species counterpoint
. You will learn how to
effectively
write counterpoint in the five distinct species:
note against note
two notes against one
four notes against one
tied notes across the bar line
mixed (florid) counterpoint
Some of the topics you will become
confident
in are
distinguishing
harmonic
and
melodic intervals
,
the classification of
consonances
(perfect and imperfect) and
dissonances
,
the correct
preparation
and
resolution
of dissonances,
the use of
tritone
,
ligature
and
cambiata
the three types of motion:
similar
,
contrary
and
oblique
The course includes a
downloadable PDF
with lesson notes, musical examples and practical exercises for you to work through yourself.
Requrirements
Requirements
You should be well grounded in music theory
You must be able to read the treble and bass clefs
You should have a good understanding of chords, intervals, keys and scales